Marco Island, Fla. (August 3, 2026) – City Manager Dr. Casey Lucius has officially appointed Joseph Belardo as the next Chief of Police for the Marco Island Police Department, effective Monday, August 3, following a highly competitive selection process.

Chief Belardo has served as Interim Chief of Police since May 27, 2026, providing steady leadership and guiding the department through a period of transition while continuing its commitment to public safety and community engagement. "Chief Belardo distinguished himself throughout a highly competitive selection process," said City Manager Dr. Casey Lucius. "His proven leadership, commitment to professional policing, and genuine dedication to the Marco Island community made him the clear choice to lead this outstanding department. I am confident he will continue building on the department's strong foundation while guiding it into the future."

Chief Belardo began his law enforcement career with the Schodack Police Department in New York, where he served in a variety of assignments before retiring as Chief of Police in 2020. In April 2020, he joined the Marco Island Police Department and quickly became a respected leader within the organization. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2023 and Lieutenant in 2025 before being appointed Interim Chief earlier this year.

Chief Belardo holds two master's degrees, including a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Science in the Administration of Justice and Security. In addition to his law enforcement career, he and his wife, Renee, operated Blue Wave Swim School, a community-focused program dedicated to youth water safety.

Coming from a multi-generational law enforcement family, Chief Belardo is a proud husband, father of three, and grandfather of two. "It is an incredible honor to be selected as the next Chief of Police for the Marco Island Police Department," said Chief Joseph Belardo. "I am grateful to Dr. Lucius, the City Council, and our community for their trust and confidence. Most importantly, I want to thank the dedicated men and women of this department whose professionalism and commitment to serving others inspire me every day. Together, we will continue strengthening our partnerships with the community while providing the exceptional level of service that Marco Island deserves."

Since assuming the role of Interim Chief, Belardo has focused on supporting department personnel, strengthening relationships with the community, and continuing the department's mission of providing professional, compassionate, and responsive police services.

The City of Marco Island congratulates Chief Joseph Belardo on his appointment and looks forward to his continued leadership of the Marco Island Police Department.

An official swearing-in ceremony for Chief Belardo will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 12, at 2 p.m. Additional details regarding the ceremony will be announced by the city.